WWF Amano Fellows Program 2027 for Zimbabweans

Applications are now open for the WWF Amano Fellows Program 2027, a nine-month virtual leadership and mentorship programme designed to nurture the next generation of conservation and sustainable development leaders in Zimbabwe. Organized by WWF Zimbabwe in partnership with Amano, the fellowship targets young Zimbabweans who have demonstrated leadership, community impact, and a commitment to inclusive conservation and sustainable development.

The programme is intended for emerging leaders who are already making meaningful contributions within their communities through environmental conservation, climate action, biodiversity protection, environmental education, sustainable entrepreneurship, or community development initiatives. Through expert-led workshops, mentorship, peer learning, and leadership training, fellows will strengthen their capacity to lead impactful conservation initiatives while expanding their professional networks.

Unlike many fellowship programmes that require participants to relocate, the WWF Amano Fellows Program is conducted entirely online, allowing participants to continue their education, employment, or community work while engaging in structured learning activities over nine months. Although the programme does not provide a financial stipend, it offers extensive leadership development opportunities and access to experienced conservation practitioners and an international network of young changemakers.

About the Fellowship

The WWF Amano Fellows Program was established to strengthen leadership among young people working to protect nature and promote sustainable development. Recognizing that effective conservation requires strong leadership, collaboration, communication, and community engagement, the programme combines mentorship, coaching, and practical learning to help participants become more effective environmental leaders.

Throughout the nine-month programme, fellows participate in interactive workshops, mentoring sessions, peer discussions, and leadership exercises designed to enhance their ability to develop conservation initiatives, influence positive change, and build resilient communities. Participants also have opportunities to learn from experienced practitioners working in biodiversity conservation, environmental governance, climate resilience, and sustainable development.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive:

• Participation in a nine-month virtual leadership development programme.
• Personalized mentorship from experienced conservation professionals.
• Expert-led workshops on leadership, conservation, and sustainable development.
• Peer-to-peer learning with emerging environmental leaders.
• Opportunities to strengthen leadership and communication skills.
• Access to a growing network of conservation practitioners and young changemakers.
• Practical guidance on advancing community-centred conservation initiatives.
• Enhanced knowledge of inclusive conservation and sustainable development.
• Professional development opportunities that support long-term leadership growth.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be Zimbabwean citizens.
• Be between 21 and 30 years of age.
• Demonstrate leadership experience and a proven record of creating positive change within their community or region.
• Show a strong commitment to inclusive conservation and sustainable development.
• Preferably come from, or work closely with, Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities.
• Have reliable internet access.
• Have access to a laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
• Be fluent in English.
• Be able to dedicate approximately 5–8 hours per month throughout the nine-month fellowship.

Required Application Materials

Applicants are required to submit:

• An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Responses to the following application questions:
  • Why should WWF consider you for the Amano Fellows Program? (Maximum 100 words).
  • Describe your leadership journey and impact. What lasting change have you created in your community or region? (Maximum 150 words).
  • How have you demonstrated your commitment to values-based leadership? (Maximum 150 words).
  • How will the Amano Fellows Program benefit you and your work? (Maximum 250 words).

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Demonstrated leadership experience.
• Evidence of positive community impact.
• Commitment to conservation and sustainable development.
• Alignment with inclusive, community-centred conservation principles.
• Quality and clarity of written responses.
• Motivation to participate in the fellowship.
• Potential to contribute to and benefit from the programme's mentoring and networking opportunities.

How to Apply

To apply for the WWF Amano Fellows Program 2027:

1. Confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements.
2. Prepare an updated CV highlighting your leadership and conservation experience.
3. Draft thoughtful responses to the four required application questions, ensuring they remain within the specified word limits.
4. Review your application for completeness and accuracy.
5. Submit your CV and written responses by email to the address provided in the official application announcement before the deadline.